Six QIOC club members and one dog were heralded back onto Quadra trails with a two flipper salute and several large blows from a pair of humpbacks cruising down Hoskyn Channel in front of Shellaligan Beach. Their welcoming slaps set the tone for a very pleasant hike on the “long” Shellaligan loop, luckily sandwiched in between the seemingly never-ending rainstorms of late. Surprisingly, the rock bluffs along the seashore were dry, despite the early morning rain. We took advantage of the good weather to take an early lunch break on the granitic bluffs, even enjoying a few rays of sunshine. The trail was in good condition, branches and deadfall have been cleared in the forest section and bridges are in good repair. Some beach debris (mostly fish- and shellfish -farming debris) has been piled at the beach access points, hopefully to be removed by a boater (or very enthusiastic hiker) soon. Along the trail we saw several outcroppings of Indian Pipe, and one bright spot of “Dog’s Vomit” slime mold (or, more elegantly, “Scrambled Egg” Slime). The “Neurotic Sapsucker” tree amused those who had not done this section of the trail before. We also saw several fresh wolf scats on Boletus Road and Village Bay Main. As we hiked, and stopped for breaks, we had no problems in adhering to our Club’s new distancing and talking protocols. Altogether, a great start to our “Covid” hiking season. Time: 3 hours including a 20 minute lunch break

Valerie

Thanks to Valerie and Diana for the photos

(click on photos to enlarge)

Hiking – Shellaligan Pass Loop – 8 July 2020